House Approves Bill Restricting Voter Access To The Polls

The Ohio House has approved proposals to trim early voting hours and set rules for mailing unsolicited absentee ballot applications.

Currently, Ohioans may cast an absentee ballot by mail or in person without giving any reason. Early voting currently starts 35 days prior to Election Day. One bill would eliminate the week when people may register to vote and cast an early ballot. Without those days, early voting would then typically start 29 days before Election Day. Another bill would let the Secretary of State mail unsolicited applications for general elections if the Legislature approves the funding. The measure prevents other public officials from mailing the applications.